Yes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year – but it can also be the most stressful if you’re hosting. In the countdown to Christmas, former Good Housekeeping editor Gaby Huddart shares tips and tricks to get your home fit for the festivities

Start right now! It’s the best way to keep calm, make informed choices, allow a little flexibility and spread the cost. You’ll be able to reap the rewards of being super-organised nearer the time. Set

Spare yourself the shopping trip. Who doesn’t love a gift made with love?

Ingredients (Serves 8) 65 g ready-to-eat dried apricots, chopped 65 g ready-to-eat dried figs, chopped 75 g ready-to-eat dried prunes, chopped 65 g Maraschino or glacé cherries, halved Half an orange,

Our round-up of the funny, fascinating and unusual stories this fortnight

WHO SAID DINNER WAS THE MAIN EVENT? CLODAGH MCKENNA’S TWIXMAS BRUNCH IDEAS MIGHT PERSUADE YOU OTHERWISE…